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176: AV/EDR

Overview​

Deploying Antivirus (AV) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions for macOS devices using Microsoft Intune can significantly enhance your organization's security posture. Here's a detailed overview:

Steps to Deploy AV/EDR​

  1. Prerequisites:

    • Ensure macOS devices are enrolled in Intune.
    • Verify that devices meet the system requirements for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.

  2. Add Microsoft Defender for Endpoint:

    • Sign in to the Microsoft Intune admin center.
    • Navigate to Apps > All apps > Add.
    • Select Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for macOS from the app type list.

  3. Create Configuration Profiles:

    • Go to Devices > Configuration profiles > Create profile.
    • Select macOS for the platform and Templates for the profile type.
    • Choose the necessary templates, such as system extensions, network extensions, and full disk access.

  4. Deploy the App:

    • Assign the Microsoft Defender for Endpoint app to the relevant user or device groups.
    • Ensure the app is installed on all targeted macOS devices.

  5. Configure AV/EDR Policies:

    • In the Intune admin center, navigate to Endpoint security > Antivirus.
    • Create and configure antivirus policies, including real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, and automatic sample submission.
    • Navigate to Endpoint security > Endpoint detection and response to configure EDR policies.

  6. Monitor and Maintain:

    • Continuously monitor the deployment status and compliance of devices.
    • Update policies as needed to address new threats and vulnerabilities.

Benefits​

  • Enhanced Security: Provides robust protection against malware and other threats.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: EDR capabilities allow for continuous monitoring and quick response to security incidents.
  • Unified Management: Manage AV/EDR settings alongside other device configurations in Intune.
  • Compliance: Helps ensure devices comply with organizational security policies.

Drawbacks​

  • Initial Setup Complexity: Configuring AV/EDR policies and deploying the app can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Resource Intensive: AV/EDR solutions can consume significant system resources, potentially impacting device performance.
  • Learning Curve: IT staff may need training to effectively manage AV/EDR solutions.

Possible Impact on End Users​

  • Improved Security: Users benefit from enhanced protection against threats, reducing the risk of data breaches.
  • Performance Impact: Users may experience a slight decrease in device performance due to the resource-intensive nature of AV/EDR solutions.
  • Seamless Experience: Properly configured policies can lead to a smoother user experience with fewer disruptions.

Tying to Zero Trust​

Deploying AV/EDR solutions for macOS devices aligns with Zero Trust principles by:

  • Continuous Verification: Ensures that devices are continuously monitored and verified before granting access.
  • Conditional Access: Enforces policies that require devices to meet security standards.
  • Least Privilege Access: Limits access to resources based on user roles and compliance status.

Reference​